Verizon has partnered with Amazon to allow select developers to test its 5G edge network on Wavelength, a cloud computing software built by Amazon Web Services. Wavelength was designed for the purpose of developing low-latency apps intended for 5G devices.
The NFL was announced as one of the organizations chosen to pilot AWS Wavelength on Verizon 5G. Testing is currently happening in Chicago, where the league is uncovering ways to affix 5G to the Next Gen Stats platform, which would allow data to be delivered faster than current internet speeds. The 2019 Pro Bowl was the first NFL game where fans were able to follow advanced metrics such as live player movement and run-pass predictions in real-time through Next Gen Stats.
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“The Next Gen Stats platform captures player location data in real-time, generates over 200 stats per play, and charts individual movements within inches,” Matt Swensson, the NFL’s of VP emerging products and technology, said in a press release. “The use of AWS’s Wavelength and Verizon’s 5G Ultra Wideband network has the potential to lower data transmission latency for delivery of new and exciting in-stadium enhancements to fans.”
Verizon installed its 5G technology in 13 NFL stadiums prior to the start of the current season. NFL chief information officer Michelle McKenna told SportTechie in September that 5G was a leading tool the league is testing to create new and improved fan experiences. Earlier this year, the Dallas Cowboys launched a 5G-powered activation at AT&T Stadium that lets fans take photos with augmented iterations of Cowboys players.
